it defiantely gets better over time, atleast it did for me. The best thing I've done is started sliding my fingers on the keys rather than lifting them. I actually think i'm going faster now, but their is definately some time required to get used to it.

fyi I upgraded from the 7290

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"A computer lets you make more mistakes faster than any invention in human history - with the possible exceptions of handguns and tequila." - unknown

I have had 3 qwerty keyboard PDAs in the last 4yrs. The best typing experience was on a sidekick II. The XV6700 was not a fun experience. I have started to like the 8800, have it for 3 weeks and my typing speed is definitely improving.

My experience with the 8800 has been fantastic. Unlike a lot of people on the forum, I dreaded the 8700c keyboard. It just did not work for me. I had no speed or confidence after giving myself a very long time to adjust to it.

Then I got the 8800 and from the very first day I was able to type at the speed I'm used to on a qwerty keyboard. I find the size and shape of the keys just right for me and I have rather large hands.

These posts actually make me want to give the 8800 a third try. I so want to like typing on it...everything else is excellent.
One other question though: for a guy with average hands, doesn't the 8700 feel more solid?

These posts actually make me want to give the 8800 a third try. I so want to like typing on it...everything else is excellent.
One other question though: for a guy with average hands, doesn't the 8700 feel more solid?

Here's my take for what it's worth.

I was a big qwerty fan until I bought my 8700c.

I made a _huge_ mistake, as I purchased it from Cingular over the phone, assuming it would have a great keyboard since that was the consensus on the forum. I didn't even give the keyboard a second thought until I got it.

Upon unpacking my new 8700c, I tried using it and I was grossly disappointed. The shape of the keys are rather odd and tapered on the inside edges thereby reducing the amount of contact area that your finger touches when pressing the keys. I found it cramped as the keys are smaller and closer together than my past qwerty devices. The keys are part of the styling element on the 8700 as opposed to being designed for speed and accuracy as the keys were on the earlier BBs such as the 7200 series. My 7290 had the best keyboard of all. Terrific keys, really solid, easy to use and very fast.

The moment I heard about the 8800 I could not wait to get one. I got mine on the very first day they had them in stock and I could not be happier. The keyboard on the 8800 is very well laid out and the keys are optimized for fast typing. There is less resistance than the 8700 presents, therefore the keys respond faster and my typing speed is much faster. Accuracy is also greater as they are just so smooth with great tactile feedback.

So what does all this mean? Just that we are all different and until you give it a good try for yourself there is no telling what is the best for you.

Going forward I certainly will not make that mistake again, I will always take a wait and see approach until I've had a chance to evaluate it by using it myself.